Acting Consul General John Warner welcomed 175 newly enrolled students to the
sixmonth“English Works” Program in Karachi on March 11.The program, funded
through United States Government’s Regional English Language Programs Office,
focuses on enhancing business communication skills – including
professional-level English – to improve students’ employment and educational
prospects, and, in many cases, their ability to support their families. The
program also introduces youth to American values, such as volunteerism, as well
as cultural and religious pluralism.

In his opening remarks,John Warnertold the students,“English is a tool that can
help you build a better life for yourselves, your families, and your
communities. This program will enhance your confidence andleadership
skills,expandyour understanding ofdemocracy and volunteerism, and help you reach
your full potential as future leaders of Pakistan. You are off to a great
startand you should be proud of the hard work you are putting into this
program.”

The English Works program was launched to improve job-related English and
practical skills among disadvantaged young people aged 17-25.Four hundred
participants throughout Pakistan currently receive up to 12 hours of classroom
instruction per week in English vocabulary, grammar, and writing for workplace
environments.The programalso includes seminars, workshops, and conferences on
resume writing, job interviews, and workplace etiquette.